Mercedes-Benz G 270 / G 400 CDI 25-Year Import Eligibility: Rolling
Estimate based on build month, not legal advice.
Build-date table
| Item | Value |
|---|---|
| Chassis | W463 |
| Category | Euro |
| Estimated window | rolling / may already be eligible |
| Source status | Model windows supported: G 400 CDI from ~Dec 2000; G 270 CDI from early 2002 (exact first build unverified) |
| Build month for a specific car | always per-car — read it from the chassis plate / export certificate |
CORRECTION: earlier draft said '2002 builds'. The G 400 CDI was available from Dec 2000, so early builds are already eligible; the G 270 CDI launched early 2002, so its earliest builds unlock about early 2027 (month unverified). Last build month for either not found. Diesel and light-truck classification can change duty and state rules.
Build-date evidence
- Mercedes-Benz Classic public archive (463 series): G 400 CDI introduced at the Sept 2000 Paris show; G 270 CDI shown Sept 2001 and 'launched at the beginning of 2002'. [primary] source
- Mercedes-Benz Belgium press release (28 Aug 2000): new G 400 CDI available from Dec 2000. [primary] source
Grades: primary = manufacturer/official page; secondary = press, enthusiast or reseller site. Last checked 2026-10-17.
How to find a car's build date
- Read the manufacture month on the chassis/VIN plate (photograph it).
- Check the Japanese export certificate or manufacturer records where available.
- Do not rely on launch dates or model-year labels.
Import cost estimate
Use the import cost calculator (federal duty + MPF modeled; shipping, broker, compliance are your inputs).
Regulatory links
FAQ
When can I import a Mercedes-Benz G 270 / G 400 CDI?
Estimated window: rolling / may already be eligible. Eligibility depends on the individual car's build month. The model-level build window is only partly supported (see evidence below); any individual car's month must still be read from its plate/export certificate.
Is the launch date the same as the build date?
No. The 25-year clock runs from each car's own manufacture date, not its launch date.
Does the EPA 21-year rule apply too?
EPA uses a separate test (calendar year of manufacture subtracted from year of import, original unmodified configuration). State rules such as California's are also separate.